Marine Mammal System Assistant III 04188 LBYDF
Location: Bangor, Washington
Schedule: Regular Part Time
Travel Required: No
Government Clearance: Secret Security Clearance (must be able to obtain prior to starting work; US Citizenship required)
About the Role
At LBYD Federal, “Large Firm Expertise, Small Firm Responsiveness,” is the motto we put into action every day. We perform high-quality planning, engineering, architecture, and professional services in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. The Marine Mammal Systems Assistant III (MMA III) will support 24/7 operations by working closely with veterinary and biotech staff to provide superior care to the mammal complement through vitamins/medication delivery, issuance of proper diets, and routine medical procedures. Each animal receives customized care based on individual health requirements, and husbandry behaviors are developed and maintained based on animal-specific needs. The MMA III will serve as the designated handler for a specific animal, provide oversight and technical direction to MMA I and II staff in a non-supervisory capacity, assist with the transport of marine mammals, and execute individual training plans for the designated animal.
Responsibilities
- Primary handler for a specific animal
- Provide non-supervisory oversight and guidance to MMA I and MMA II staff
- Work with lead staff to discuss animal issues and solutions
- Monitor and observe animal behaviors and wellness routinely and report to onsite personnel
- Complete animal working sessions to include body inspections and assessment of animal’s wellbeing (behavior and health)
- Engage with animals through working sessions rehearsing and executing multiple behaviors to be performed in open water
- Record information about each session and the animal’s performance
- Perform feedings and administration of food supplements
- Assist with basic animal husbandry
- Provide diving support to operations (to include enclosure inspection and maintenance)
- Support fish house operations to prepare individually formulated rations designed to meet each animal’s specific need
- Operate a variety of watercraft
- Perform tasks related to the care and training of marine mammals for specific marine mammal projects
- Deter the presence of nuisance animals while following established processes and procedures
- Travel with the animal for extended periods anywhere in the world, including potentially harsh environments and risk locations, within 72-hour notice
Requirements
- Two (2) years of Marine Mammal Systems (MMS) experience
- Basic open water scuba diving certification with a minimum of 1 year experience
- Operational and navigation experience on small boats (40’ or under)
- USCG license (Operator of Un-inspected Passenger Vessels/6pac – 46 CFR 10.467) or higher, or U.S. Navy Coxswain’s certification
- Operational experience using maritime navigational devices
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, holidays, and weekends
- Must pass a swim and dive test in addition to holding a basic scuba certification
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Commitment to safety for the project, team members, and animals
- Ability to obtain a government security clearance prior to starting work
- US Citizenship
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology or other related field
- Advanced scuba diving certifications (e.g., dive master, instructor, commercial diver certification, 1st or 2nd class Navy Diver classification)
- Current First Aid and CPR Certification
Skills
- Work well in a team-oriented environment
- Embrace safety culture, policies, and procedures
Physical Demands
- Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs
- Must be able to pull oneself out of the water and onto deck and boat platforms without the use of a ladder
- Able to pass the Maritime Vessel Operation Color Blind Test as directed by the contract
- Physically qualified to perform dive operations
- Able to stoop, bend, squat, climb, kneel, talk, and hear
- Stand or walk for extended periods of time
- Spend extended periods of time on a water vessel in different sea states
Working Environment
- Work outdoors on boats, docks, and in water in all weather elements and conditions
Benefits
- Competitive pay and benefits package
- Health, life, and disability insurance benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Generous paid leave
- Tuition reimbursement for eligible employees
- Formalized mentorship program
- Professional development through North Wind University
- Health & wellness program
- Employee service awards program